Wiggins Discusses NBA Trade to Miami Heat as Butler Joins Warriors

MIAMI, Fla. — Former All-Star Andrew Wiggins addressed the recent trade that moved him from the Golden State Warriors to the Miami Heat, marking a significant change in his career. In a press conference held on February 12, 2025, Wiggins reflected on the trade, stating, “Once I got the news, it’s time for a new chapter. It’s hard, but that’s the NBA… It’s a business. I’m here. I’m looking forward to it. I’m excited.”

The 29-year-old player, who was pivotal in Golden State’s championship successes, helped the team secure their fourth NBA title during the Stephen Curry–Klay Thompson–Draymond Green era in 2022. Wiggins emphasized his enthusiasm about joining a “winning organization” like the Heat, citing their strong coaching staff and fan support. He said, “They do things right. When you come here, you just gotta be ready to work.”

Wiggins’s move to Miami was part of a larger deal that sent star forward Jimmy Butler to the Warriors. With this transition, Wiggins aims to enhance his scoring capabilities, similar to his earlier days with the Minnesota Timberwolves. Despite leaving behind a championship-contending team, he is ready to take on a leadership role in the Eastern Conference.

Butler, joining the Warriors after a tumultuous stint with the Heat, expressed his excitement about the new opportunity. “Yo, Dub Nation! Jimmy Butler here,” he announced as he underwent a physical with Golden State. He conveyed his eagerness to contribute to the team’s success, stating, “Just touched down… Super excited. [I’m] Ready to win. Ready to work. Let’s get it. Championship coming soon.”

During Butler’s introductory press conference, he reflected on moving forward from his past, indicating, “All of that is behind me, moving forward. I’m happy to be here. I’m happy to be wanted again.” The Warriors secured Butler with a lucrative two-year contract worth $112 million, indicating their confidence in his potential impact on the team.

Despite concerns about Butler’s fit within the Warriors’ roster, teammate Draymond Green downplayed any issues, emphasizing Butler’s winning mentality. “He wins? I win? That’s the fit. Winners win,” Green stated, highlighting Butler’s track record as a perennial All-Star and a competitor. The franchise hopes to tap into Butler’s renewed energy and experience as they navigate potential challenges ahead.

Warriors’ star Curry, who expressed some reservations about the trade, was nonetheless optimistic following the announcement. He stated, “I know there was a lot of drama down there (in Miami). Who really knows what the story is. We expect to have a motivated, committed Jimmy, that’s ready to impact our team for the better… I’m excited to get to work.”

Both Wiggins and Butler’s transitions symbolize a new phase for their respective teams, with added scrutiny regarding their contributions in unfamiliar colors. Wiggins aims to maintain his scoring and rebounding prowess with Miami as Butler attempts to seamlessly integrate into a championship-focused Warriors squad.

As the season unfolds, both players’ adjustments will be critical in determining their teams’ paths in the fierce NBA landscape.